PEDIATRICS Vol. 22 No. 4 October 1958, pp. 675-688
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ACUTE POISONING ASSOCIATED WITH INHALATION OF MERCURY VAPOR

Report of Four Cases

Fred T. Matthes M.D.1, Rudolph Kirschner M.D.1, Martha D. Yow M.D.1, and James C. Brennan M.D.1

1 Departments of Pediatrics and Pathology, Baylor University College of Medicine, and Jefferson Davis Hospital, Houston, Texas

Four cases of pneumonitis associated with the inhalation of mercury vapor are described in detail. Three of the four cases were fatal.

The illness was characterized by the sudden onset of tachypnea, cough, fever, gastrointestinal disturbances and central nervous system manifestations.

Ordinary laboratory tests were not helpful in establishing the diagnosis. Quantitative analysis of the urine for mercury was suggestive but not diagnostic. Roentgenograms of the lungs revealed interstitial pneumonitis.

Analysis of tissue for mercury in the lungs, liver and spleen of two of the cases showed substantially increased mercury content.

The outstanding pathologic features in the three fatal cases were erosive bronchitis and bronchiolitis, with severe interstitial pneumonitis.

The presently accepted mode of therapy for acute poisoning due to ingestion of mercury is early use of BAL. Its use is probably also indicated in acute poisoning due to inhalation of mercury vapor. Supportive care in the form of oxygen, mist, and parenteral fluids is indicated.

Submitted on January 24, 1958
Accepted on April 24, 1958